These are royalty in the realm of fuel-sipping vehicles: Small cars with mpgs in the 20s, 30s and, yes, breaking 40. If fuel efficiency is your number one aim, look no further.

2011 Kia Rio

2011 Kia Rio

Base Price: $12,295

The Numbers (MPG): 34 hwy, 28 city, 31 overall

The Tradeoff: There's nothing groundbreaking about the Kia Rio, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's a solid entry-level car and handles well enough and produces enough power to get out of its own way. Not a bad choice for buyers who are on a budget but trying to avoid used cars.

2011 Mazda Mazda2

2011 Mazda Mazda2

Base Price: $14,180

The Numbers (MPG): 35 hwy, 29 city, 32 overall

The Tradeoff: When we tested the new Mazda2, we were pleased to find it offered a tremendously fun ride; the steering and handling are simply topnotch for a subcompact. Unfortunately, we were less impressed with the distinct lack of zoom-zoom coming from under the hood. A boost in power would do wonders for this otherwise delightful little car.